Alexandra Mardell has announced that she will be leaving her role as Emma Brooker on Coronation Street later this spring.
Kind-natured Emma quickly became a firm fan favourite after arriving on the cobbles in April 2018 - and in a shock twist the following year it was revealed that Steve McDonald (Simon Gregson) was her father, unbeknownst to them both.
Mardell has now decided to leave the show, however, and will film her final scenes later this month before bowing out on screen in April.
"Playing Emma, on the most iconic street there is, has been the best experience of my life," she said. "Four years have gone so fast.
"Compared to other cast members I still feel like a newbie, which makes my decision to leave all the more difficult. But I feel it's the right time for me.
"I can't thank everyone at Coronation Street enough for welcoming me and trusting me to tell so many wonderful and heartfelt stories. And for the friendships."
Corrie producer Iain MacLeod said: "Emma has found herself in a massive pickle — one which will cause her to wave goodbye to the cobbles. At least for now.
"Alexandra has been pure Corrie gold and I wish her all the best."
Emma is currently involved in a storyline that has seen her help cover up the accidental death of an elderly man, although whether that plot will lead to her exit remains unknown.
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